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The push for establishing state police in Nigeria gained momentum on Tuesday as the House of Representatives passed a Bill for an Act to alter the 1999 Constitution to make provisions for the creation of State Police.
Sponsored by the Deputy Speaker, Hon. Benjamin Kalu, and supported by 14 other lawmakers, the Bill seeks to move “Police” from the “Exclusive Legislative List” to the “Concurrent Legislative List,” enabling states to have control over policing.
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Key innovations in the proposed alteration include transferring policing authority to the Concurrent List, and establishing a comprehensive framework for cohesion, accountability, and uniform standards between the Federal Police and Police of state Forces.
The amendments also include safeguards to prevent unwarranted interference by the Federal Police in Police of state affairs, the creation of State Police Service Commissions separate from the Federal Police Service Commission, and re-calibration of the National Police Council to include Chairmen of the State Police Service Commissions.
During the debate, the sponsors emphasized the necessity of state policing in addressing the country’s security challenges and responding to calls for a decentralized and community-oriented law enforcement approach. They argued that the proposed alteration is a visionary step toward a safer, more secure, and harmonious Nigeria.
After an extensive debate supporting the Bill, it was referred to the House Committee on Constitution Review, chaired by Deputy Speaker Kalu. Lawmakers were encouraged to send their concerns on the proposed legislation to the committee for further consideration.
